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noun

ritter

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Ritter (noun) means a knight, especially in historical German contexts; also used in some English fantasy or translated fiction to mean a mounted, armored warrior. Example: “The novel's hero trains as a ritter, learning swordsmanship and courtly manners.”

noun
1
A knight, especially in historical German contexts; also used in some English fantasy or translated fiction to mean a mounted, armored warrior.
"The novel's hero trains as a ritter, learning swordsmanship and courtly manners."
"In medieval Germany, a ritter typically held land in exchange for military service to a lord."

How to use ritter

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe German word for "knight," occasionally borrowed into English historical or fantasy writing.

Common mistake

Rare outside translated German history or fiction — in everyday English writing, "knight" is almost always the natural choice instead.

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Word forms

Plural
ritters
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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The novel's hero trains as a _____, learning swordsmanship and courtly manners.

Etymology

Borrowed directly from German Ritter ("knight, rider"), related to English "rider."

Origin: German

Rhymes for ritter

See all rhymes for ritter →

Frequently asked questions

What does “ritter” mean?
The word “ritter” means a knight, especially in historical German contexts; also used in some English fantasy or translated fiction to mean a mounted, armored warrior. In plain terms, the German word for "knight," occasionally borrowed into English historical or fantasy writing.
How do you use “ritter” in a sentence?
Here is “ritter” used in a sentence: “The novel's hero trains as a ritter, learning swordsmanship and courtly manners.”
What part of speech is “ritter”?
“Ritter” is a noun.
Where does the word “ritter” come from?
The word “ritter” comes from German. Borrowed directly from German Ritter ("knight, rider"), related to English "rider.".